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Mercedes-Benz is set to launch its stunning A-Class in South Africa. Ahead of its official launch the German automaker has released pricing for its new city hatchback which will be launched in April 2013.

Sales of the new A-Class commenced in Europe in September 2012 and a total of 90 000 orders have already been received.

Only front-wheel drive versions will be offered for now and we’ll have to wait awhile longer for the awesome AMG.

'WE INVENTED PREMIUM COMPACTS'

The A180 and A200 BlueEfficiency models are powered by a new 1.6 direct-injection turbo petrol engine capable of 90kW/200Nm in the A 180 and 115kW/250Nm in the A200.

The A250 Sport is powered by two-litre petrol engine capable of 155kW/350Nm.

The diesel A 180CDI BlueEfficiency is said to be the most efficient model in the range. It’s powered by a 80kW/260Nm 1.5 turbodiesel which the automaker claims can produce a fuel consumption figure kof 3.8 litres/100km. For those seeing more diesel grunt there's 2.1 A 220 CDI capable of 125kW and 350Nm.

Every engines will be mated to a six-speed manual though the A 180 CDI can be fitted with a seven-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission.

Mercedes SA CEO Martin Zimmermann said: “The A-Class falls in a very competitive segment but Mercedes-Benz is no stranger to this segment - we invented it more than 15 years ago with the first A-Class. With our latest introductions to the compact car segment we have an opportunity to attract young and discerning consumers looking for power and performance embodied in a sporty and stylish design, with all the traditional Mercedes-Benz values of safety and reliability."

Mercedes-Benz head of design and development for compact cars, Joerg Prigl, said: “No other car in this segment is as progressive and sporty as the new A-Class."

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